Latest clearly sourced MAXGG coverage about Microsoft.
Two separate acquisition deals fell through after Microsoft showcased Ninja Theory's upcoming Celtic action sequel at Summer Game Fest in June, leaving the studio facing proposed closure.
2 min read
A Halo executive reaffirmed that Halo Fest will proceed as scheduled in Seattle on December 11–13, 2026, marking the franchise's 25th anniversary celebration. The confirmation comes after recent layoffs reduced Halo Studios to approximately 20 developers.
2 min read
Microsoft's latest round of layoffs reshapes Xbox's first-party structure, moving studios like 343 Industries and Rare to Activision while raising questions about Game Pass viability and the platform's future direction.
3 min read
Microsoft has filed a patent for a system that would display advertisements during Xbox game sessions, pausing at natural breaks like loading screens and menus. Players would earn ad-free playtime credits after watching ads.
1 min read
Microsoft has dissolved Halo Studios and handed the franchise to Activision, marking a major shift for a series that struggled to find its footing over the past decade.
3 min read
Valve's credit card-only approach to age verification in Australia contrasts sharply with Microsoft's account-based system, which uses purchase history to verify adult accounts without additional documentation.
1 min read
Leaker KeplerL2 has posted speculative performance figures for the upcoming PlayStation 6 and Xbox Project Helix consoles on a Neogaf forum thread.
1 min read
Microsoft has filed a patent for technology that would pause games to show advertisements, rewarding players with credits to extend play sessions. The system could insert ads at natural gameplay pauses like loading screens and boss fights.
2 min read
A new Microsoft patent describes a process for using AI to create and adapt game narratives, objectives, and NPCs based on player facial expressions, voice, and engagement metrics. The technology would allow designers to prompt AI to build game content
3 min read
Microsoft has reorganized its studios by positioning Obsidian Entertainment under Bethesda Softworks oversight, a move that includes Obsidian's ongoing Grounded project and a new Fallout collaboration with Bethesda Game Studios.
1 min read
Microsoft has eliminated 268 roles across Halo Studios and Xbox Game Studios management, reducing Halo Studios to a small team focused on community support while Activision takes over development of the next Halo game.
2 min read
Microsoft is consolidating its Forza developers Playground Games and Turn 10 Studios into one team after years of collaboration on the racing franchise.
2 min read